For the uninitiated, navigating the chaotic, hilarious world of Trailer Park Boys can seem daunting. Fear not, because the chronological order is straightforward: start with the original 1999 film, then proceed sequentially through the series seasons, specials, and subsequent films, paying close attention to released dates to avoid timeline confusion caused by flashback episodes.
Diving into the Sunnyvale Timeline
Understanding the order of the Trailer Park Boys universe unlocks deeper appreciation for character development, running gags, and the overall narrative arc. Simply jumping into any season or special can lead to confusion and missed jokes, so adhering to the release order is key. The show’s strength lies in its continuity and escalating absurdity, making a chronological viewing essential for the best experience.
The Official Viewing Order: Season by Season, Film by Film
Here is the definitive chronological order to watch Trailer Park Boys:
- Trailer Park Boys (1999 Film): This low-budget mockumentary introduces Ricky, Julian, and Bubbles and establishes the core comedic themes. It’s the foundation upon which everything else is built.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 1 – 2001): The first season expands on the characters and setting established in the film. It’s relatively grounded compared to later seasons, but essential viewing.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 2 – 2002): Introduces many iconic elements, including the “gettin’ two birds stoned at once” philosophy and the increasing absurdity of Ricky’s plans.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 3 – 2003): The boys’ criminal ventures escalate, and the character relationships become even more complex.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 4 – 2004): Features some of the most memorable episodes, including the introduction of Randy’s cheeseburger addiction.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 5 – 2005): Continues the escalating chaos and introduces new recurring characters.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 6 – 2006): Marks a shift in tone, with more outlandish storylines and character arcs.
- Trailer Park Boys (The Movie – 2006): The first theatrical film, following the boys’ attempt to pull off one last big score.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 7 – 2007): Continues the trend of increasing absurdity, with more outlandish schemes and situations.
- Trailer Park Boys (Say Goodnight to the Bad Guys – 2008): A special episode that acts as a send-off for the original series run, before its cancellation and later revival.
- Trailer Park Boys: Countdown to Liquor Day (2009 Film): The second film, taking place after “Say Goodnight to the Bad Guys” and dealing with the boys’ time in jail and subsequent release.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 8 – 2014): The revival season, produced by SwearNet. It sees the boys older, slightly wiser (though not much), and back in Sunnyvale.
- Trailer Park Boys 3: Don’t Legalize It (2014 Film): The third film, dealing with the potential legalization of marijuana in Canada and the boys’ plans to capitalize on it.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 9 – 2015): The boys continue their increasingly convoluted schemes.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 10 – 2016): Introduces even more outlandish elements, including the arrival of aliens.
- Trailer Park Boys: Out of the Park: Europe (2016): A spin-off series where the boys travel through Europe. While not directly related to the main storyline, it provides comedic relief and travel escapades.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 11 – 2017): More of the same, with the boys engaging in increasingly bizarre antics.
- Trailer Park Boys: Out of the Park: USA (2017): The boys travel across the USA in another spin-off series.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 12 – 2018): More wacky schemes and character-driven humor.
- Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series (Season 1 – 2019): An animated adaptation of the show, offering a new take on the familiar characters and situations.
- Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series (Season 2 – 2020): Continues the animated adventures of Ricky, Julian, and Bubbles.
- Trailer Park Boys: Jail (2021): A new spin-off series set in jail.
- Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series (Season 3 – 2021): The final season of the animated series.
- Trailer Park Boys (Season 13 – 2023): The last season of the main series.
Why Chronological Order Matters
Watching the Trailer Park Boys in order is crucial for several reasons:
- Character Development: You witness the evolution (or devolution) of Ricky, Julian, Bubbles, and the rest of the Sunnyvale residents. Their personalities and relationships change over time, and missing early seasons can leave you feeling disconnected.
- Running Gags: The show relies heavily on recurring jokes and catchphrases. Understanding their origins enhances the comedic effect. For instance, knowing the origin of “Rickyisms” makes them even funnier.
- Plot Continuity: While the show is episodic, there are overarching storylines that develop across seasons. Watching in order ensures you understand the context of these storylines.
Trailer Park Boys FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the viewing order and address common points of confusion:
FAQ 1: Is the 1999 Film Considered Canon?
Yes, the 1999 Trailer Park Boys film is considered canon and serves as the origin story for the characters and their world. It’s essential viewing before starting the series.
FAQ 2: Should I Watch the Animated Series?
The Trailer Park Boys: The Animated Series offers a different take on the characters and storylines. While not essential to the main narrative, it’s a fun and entertaining spin-off that many fans enjoy, and should be watched after the main live-action series is complete.
FAQ 3: What about the “Out of the Park” Spin-offs?
The “Out of the Park” spin-offs (Europe and USA) are largely self-contained and can be watched at any point after Season 10. They are more travelogue-style and don’t significantly impact the main storyline.
FAQ 4: Are the Christmas Specials Important?
There’s only one notable Christmas special titled “Dear Santa, Go F*ck Yourself”. It should be watched between seasons 6 and 7 as it directly relates to the events that happen after the 6th season of the main series.
FAQ 5: Where Can I Watch Trailer Park Boys?
Trailer Park Boys is available on various streaming platforms, including Netflix, and SwearNet.com. Availability may vary depending on your region.
FAQ 6: Are the Seasons Produced by Netflix Different?
The seasons produced by Netflix (starting with Season 8) maintain the same humor and character dynamics as the original series. They are considered part of the main storyline.
FAQ 7: Does the Order Really Matter That Much?
While you can enjoy some episodes out of order, watching Trailer Park Boys in chronological order significantly enhances the viewing experience and allows you to fully appreciate the show’s nuances.
FAQ 8: What is SwearNet?
SwearNet is the online platform created by the Trailer Park Boys themselves. It offers exclusive content, behind-the-scenes footage, and live streams.
FAQ 9: Is There a Definitive Ending to the Show?
Season 13 is regarded as the ending to the show as it was the last season produced prior to John Dunsworth’s passing, which had a great impact on the dynamic of the show.
FAQ 10: Is “Jail” a Season or a Separate Series?
Trailer Park Boys: Jail is a separate, stand-alone series. Although part of the universe, it features a distinct plot and does not directly influence the main series.
FAQ 11: Are there any other related content that should be watched?
Yes, the Swearnet channel features many different series and films with the boys. These include ‘The Drunk and On Drugs Happy Funtime Hour’ and ‘Swearnet: The Movie’.
FAQ 12: Should I watch the new Jail series, or just stick to the main seasons?
This completely depends on your personal preferences. You may enjoy the Jail series as a spin off, or find it lacks the magic of the main series.
By following this guide, you can immerse yourself in the world of Sunnyvale Trailer Park and experience the comedic genius of Ricky, Julian, and Bubbles in its proper, hilarious context. So grab a bag of chicken chips, prepare for some serious liquor consumption (vicariously, of course), and get ready to dive into the Sunnyvale saga!